Rex responds to flood crisis

IN EARLY 2023, many communities in North West Queensland were hit by severe flooding, causing widespread damage and displacing residents. The region was cut off from essential supplies and services, as roads were rendered impassable, in some cases for several weeks.

In response to the situation, Rex Airlines and its subsidiary charter and freight operator, Pel-Air Aviation, played a critical role in delivering essential freight to cut-off communities. Rex worked with local and state authorities to identify areas of need and establish air routes to deliver supplies such as food, medicine and other essential items. Pel-Air provided vital support by deploying a dedicated cargo aircraft to transport larger quantities of supplies to Gulf communities that were affected by the flooding.

The role of Rex Airlines and Pel-Air during this event highlights the importance of regional airlines in providing vital services to remote and isolated communities, and the role of State Government in ensuring these services remain viable. These services are often the lifeline for many people living in remote areas, and their ability to provide rapid and efficient transport can make a significant difference in times of crisis.

Significantly, the opening of the Regional Trade Distribution Centre (RTDC), a Queensland State Government funded project in Cairns, allowed freight to be delivered by suppliers directly to one facility on site at Cairns Airport, where it was consolidated and loaded onto the freighter aircraft.

The response from Rex Airlines was a testament to their commitment to serving the needs of the communities they fly to all year round.